Youth Stories– “In Their Own Words”
The most powerful evidence of Larkin Street Youth Services’ impact on the lives of those we serve comes from our youth themselves. We invite all youth who participate in our youth programs to tell their stories in their own words – so we can learn from their challenges and share their successes. These amazing life stories inspire our staff, volunteers and donors at Larkin Street but even more importantly, motivate other young people in our care to complete their journey at Larkin Street and move off of the street.
From the Larkin Street to Telegraph Avenue
Vicki’s journey to achieving her dreams at UC Berkeley
Vicki is a motivated, bright, and determined young 18-year-old. Though there is more to the story than Vicki will discuss, it was clear that her parents would not support her goals of getting a college education and finding a good job. Undaunted, Vicki took the situation into her own hands and sought help, all on her own initiative. She first went to Students Rising Above, a non-profit organization that assists first generation college students. There, Vicki started working with her assigned mentor, Silvia, who became a friend, companion, and sounding board for her. Silvia took Vicki to movies, restaurants, museums, concerts, and more. But most importantly, Silvia offered Vicki a listening ear and unconditional love.
Yet Vicki was still experiencing problems at home. She faced continual chaos and disruption from her parents, and it was impossible for her to study, do her homework, and work with tutors. She started getting poor grades at school. Finally, finding no other way out, she ran away from home. That was when Vicki heard about Larkin Street. By working with her case manager at Larkin Street, she was quickly placed in one at one of our transitional living sites…and it was at this site that Vicki began to flourish.
Vicki has often said that when she moved to Larkin Street her life changed for the better. She finally found a “home” where the counselors appreciated and supported her goals to excel academically. She flourished in this environment of structure, order, compassion, and camaraderie. Along with her counselors, Vicki’s peer group at the housing site became her biggest fans, showing up at every graduation of every Hire Up course that she took. And it gets better…
Because Vicki could finally concentrate on her studies, she was able to write a compelling essay for her college application to UC Berkeley. This, along with her good grades and solid test scores won Vicki a full scholarship to Berkeley.
While her friends at Larkin Street have had to say goodbye to Vicki, Silvia will continue to be her mentor, nurturing Vicki’s determination, resilience, and hope. There is no doubt that Vicki will someday achieve her dream of getting a college education, a good job, and a safe place to live.
Fruity Wednesdays
Devyn, a resident in Larkin Street’s Castro Youth Housing Initiative, conceived, planned, and launched Fruity Wednesdays, a weekly community-building event for queer youth at Larkin Street’s Drop-In Center. Devyn recognized a clear and most basic need among queer youth who are homeless: a safe place to take a shower. She worked with Larkin Street staff to launch Queer Youth Shower Night which has evolved into Fruity Wednesdays and draws about 25 youth every Wednesday night.
Following the media coverage of several tragic suicides of queer youth this winter, Devyn envisioned the potential for the weekly event to grow into a life-affirming “anti-death” night. She hoped to create a space where the queer youth community can come together, talk about the stigma and struggles they face, and participate in a community-building evening of queer-focused programming.
“My goal for the program is to constantly have something going on and it is important to have it be youth led and run,” said Devyn, a youth intern. “I would like more youth to show up and more community partners to get involved by hosting workshops and really see the program thrive.”
Now, the first Wednesday of every month is an Open Mic night, where youth express themselves through spoken word and performance. Each night includes special programming and upcoming presentations including suicide prevention, sex-positive relationships, and drama therapy. Mostly, Fruity Wednesdays is a safe, affirming, and 100% youth-led opportunity for queer youth to hang out and support each other.
“One night a week we offer dinner, activities, a clothing closet, free HIV testing and more importantly, a safe space for LGBT youth and allies of San Francisco to meet and build community with one another,” said Dean, a youth intern.
Sandy
Twenty-year-old Sandy has been dealt some tough cards in her short life. She moved around a lot with her parents, who were plagued by severe substance abuse problems, and two younger brothers. The San Francisco native lost her dad when she was just 12, and soon found herself living in a family shelter with her mom and brothers. Unfortunately, Sandy’s mom disappeared one day, causing her brothers to be sent to foster care while she, at the age of 18, was left on her own. Sandy crashed with friends for awhile, but soon found herself living on the street.
Fortunately, Sandy met a Larkin Street Youth Services outreach worker who informed her about the organization’s services and programs. Sandy quickly applied for the Castro Youth Housing Initiative program and has been living there for ten months. Still, Sandy struggled with low self-esteem as well as fears she wouldn’t be able to accomplish her goals without family support. Sandy had a supportive case manager who encouraged her to take pride in her achievements. Sandy now attends City College where she is focusing on a career in social services. She also has completed the Summer Youth Employment Program and YouthForce. Sandy currently works part time in retail and as a housecleaner.
After saving enough money for several months rent, Sandy applied for Section 8 housing. As Sandy leaves Castro Youth Housing, she also will continue to pursue her education, focusing more on career goals, rather than just work. She’s determined to stay optimistic even if life remains unpredictable.